High-end fashion and jeans brand Rock and Republic, founded by Michael Ball, recently celebrated its fifth year in business with a celebrity-filled beach party in Santa Monica. Its new Swarovski-encrusted denim and luxury leather lines were also showcased at New York Fashion Week, held September 5-12.

The company is anticipating triple-digit sales growth to nearly $400 million in sales this year, particularly from its glam-luxe footwear, accessories and non-denim ready-to-wear items. These include metallic stilettos and python handbags for women and leather dress shoes and fur-trimmed suits for men. The opening of eight new brand-owned stores in 2008 is also expected to increase sales.

The rock ‘n’ roll-inspired company, which describes its fashion ethos as “edgy” and “progressive”, also sells fashion items designed by Victoria Beckham, under the VB Rocks label.